Navigating Change: How Niagara University Is Transforming International Recruitment Strategies

In 1856, Reverend John Lynch co-founded Niagara University. Just four years later, he became the first archbishop of Toronto. This history is key to Niagara’s goal of attracting international scholars. In 2019, the university expanded by opening a campus in Vaughan, Ontario, conveniently located near the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge, which connects to its American campus in Lewiston, New York.

Chandra Foote, associate provost for Graduate and International Enrollment, recalls her early days at Niagara: “Back in 1996, over half my graduate students were from Canada. Classes would often start late because of border delays.”

When Reverend James Maher became president in 2013, he prioritized enhancing global diversity among students. Currently, 23% of Niagara’s student body is international, but only 6% come from outside Canada. Foote believes that increasing this percentage could strengthen the university’s ties to the local tourism industry.

“This area relies on tourism,” she explains. “Visitors seek dining options, accommodations, and places of worship. If we’re not open and supportive, we risk losing this vital industry.”

The university faced challenges when the Trump administration temporarily halted new student visa interviews, impacting international student admissions. Fortunately, Canadians were not affected by this freeze. Foote mentioned that Niagara adapted by offering alternatives for students. For instance, this semester, three international students will study at a partner school in Salzburg, Austria. This gives them a chance to earn credits while waiting for visa approval.

It’s not without risks, though. “If those students take courses abroad, and their visa is still denied, they may find themselves with credits that might not be accepted back home,” Foote cautions.

As classes get underway at both campuses on August 24, the university remains committed to enriching its international community while navigating the complexities of student visas and global education.

### Additional Insights

Research shows that international students significantly contribute to local economies. A 2021 report found that international students in the U.S. alone contributed over $39 billion in economic activity. This underscores the importance of universities like Niagara in fostering a diverse student body that benefits not just the institution, but also the surrounding community.

With rising geopolitical tensions, universities may need to adapt their recruitment strategies to ensure a steady influx of global talent. Engaging with prospective students on social media is becoming essential. Recent trends show that students increasingly rely on platforms like Instagram and TikTok to gather information about potential schools.

As Niagara University continues to pursue its goal, it aligns itself with broader educational trends while also fostering local growth.



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